HAZARDS
Candle Fires
In Catholic churches, schools and other
organisations candles are most commonly
lit as a physical reminder of symbolisms
found in scripture. A candle is also an open
flame capable of igniting anything that
can burn and one of the most common
and preventable causes of fire in Church
properties.
The effects of fire are devastating. Physical injury,
damage to property and the loss of assets might be
the consequences that first spring to mind, however
the interruption to business and mission, the loss of
sensitive information and the emotional impact on
workers and the community can also be significant.
Using candles safely
¡¡ Keep candles well away from items that can catch
fire. This includes clothing, books, paper, curtains,
Christmas trees, flammable decorations or liquids
¡¡ Think carefully about where you position candles:
• Avoid using them in high traffic areas, especially
around children who may knock them over
• Make sure they are placed on stable, heat
resistant surfaces
• Keep them away from drafts, vents and ceiling
fans to prevent rapid uneven burning, avoid
flame flare ups and reduce the risk of items
blowing into the flame and igniting
• Place burning candles a safe distance apart so
they are less likely to create drafts which can
cause candles to flare
¡¡ Use sturdy candleholders made of non-combustible
materials
¡¡ Never leave a burning candle unattended. All
candles should be completely extinguished before
you leave a room
¡¡ Extinguish candles with a candle snuffer and ensure
that the wick is no longer glowing before leaving
the candle
¡¡ Never allow children to use candles without
adult supervision
¡¡ Do not burn candles all the way down
¡¡ Extinguish a candle if it flickers repeatedly, smokes
or the flame becomes too high. Let it cool, trim the
wick, check for drafts and then re-light
¡¡ Keep matches and lighters in a locked cupboard
¡¡ Consider using electric candles as an alternative
to traditional candles.
When might this hazard apply?
What do I need to do?
Church properties are often unoccupied for long
periods of time. A candle that is not extinguished
properly can smoulder for many hours before reigniting
and may go unnoticed until the fire is well established.
Follow the safety tips above and ensure all candles are
completely extinguished before leaving the premises.
¡¡ Consult with workers including volunteers
The annual carols by candlelight is a highlight for
many parishes and diocese. But crowds of people,
hot weather and candles can be a tricky combination.
Consider providing some information on candle safety,
even supplying the candles and candle-holders, to
reduce the risk and keep abreast of fire bans in your
district.
Creating beautiful displays in schools and churches
for Easter and other occasions is a special part of the
celebration. Unfortunately fabric, paper and other
highly flammable materials are often used with candles
to create these displays. Consider carefully how and
where you use candles and follow the safety tips above.
¡¡ Identify the hazards associated with candles in your
workplace.
¡¡ Ask the questions:
• What might happen?
• When might it happen?
• Why might it happen?
• What could cause this to happen (there may be
multiple causes)?
¡¡ Consider what you are currently doing to manage
the risk of candle fire and whether it is effective
(also known as controls)
¡¡ Develop and implement any new controls necessary.
Practical Help
¡¡ Protecting Property Checklist
¡¡
¡¡
¡¡
¡¡
¡¡
¡¡
¡¡
¡¡
¡¡
If you would like further information
about Candle Fires, please contact
the risksupport Helpdesk on:
www.risksupport.org.au
Catholic Church Insurance Limited
ABN 76 000 005 210, AFSL no. 235415
GPO Box 180 Melbourne 3001
Workcover NSW
Worksafe VIC
Safework SA
Worksafe NT
Worksafe WA
WorkSafe Tasmania
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ)
Worksafe ACT
www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
1300 660 827
[email protected] www.risksupport.org.au
Important Notice: This publication is intended to provide a summary
and general information only to clients of Catholic Church Insurance
Limited. It does not constitute, and should not be relied on as advice or
considered as a comprehensive coverage of the topics discussed. You
should seek professional advice tailored to your own circumstances.
CCI RM204 0913